Are you tired of greasy, unhealthy fried foods but still crave that satisfying crunch? Enter the air fryer – a kitchen game-changer that lets you enjoy your favorite crispy treats with a fraction of the oil. But with so many models flooding the market, how do you find the best air fryer for money without compromising on quality or features? It’s all about striking that perfect balance between affordability and fantastic performance.
We get it. You want crispy fries, juicy chicken, and perfectly roasted veggies without breaking the bank or taking up your entire countertop. That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you our top picks for the best air fryer for money, focusing on value, versatility, and user satisfaction. Let’s dive in and discover your next kitchen essential!
1. Cuisinart Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven, 8-in-1 Oven
This Cuisinart model isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a multi-talented kitchen workhorse that truly earns its spot if you’re looking for the best air fryer for money that does it all. Combining the power of an air fryer with the functionality of a full-fledged convection toaster oven, this appliance is perfect for anyone short on counter space but big on cooking ambitions. It’s a fantastic solution for small apartments or anyone who loves the idea of having multiple cooking methods in one sleek unit.
-
Key Features:
- COOKING FUNCTIONS: Premium 1800-watt toaster oven and AirFryer with settings for AirFry, toast, convection bake, bake, convection broil, broil, grill, and warming. Wide temperature range (Warm-450°F).
- CAPACITY: Large enough to toast 6 slices of bread, air fry 3 pounds of chicken wings, bake a 12-inch pizza, or roast a 4-pound chicken.
- SUPERIOR OPERATION: Adjustable temperature dial, 60-minute timer/auto-shutoff, and a toast shade selector for perfect results.
- INCLUDES: Oven light, oven rack, baking pan, AirFry basket, grill, and a nonstick, easy-clean interior.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: Provides peace of mind.
-
Pros:
- Extremely versatile with 8 cooking functions.
- Generous capacity for a compact appliance.
- Durable stainless steel design.
- Excellent for toasting, baking, and air frying.
- Easy to clean interior.
-
Cons:
- Larger footprint than dedicated air fryers.
- Can take longer to preheat than smaller basket models.
-
User Impressions: Users rave about its versatility and how it replaces several appliances, saving space and making it a solid choice for the value. They particularly love its ability to handle larger meals and its reliable performance across all functions.
-
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro is a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. It’s a dedicated air fryer designed to deliver consistently crispy results with minimal oil, making it a fantastic contender for the best air fryer for money if your priority is healthier frying. Its straightforward design and efficient performance make it a go-to for daily meals and quick snacks.
-
Key Features:
- AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
- LARGE CAPACITY: 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate fit up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods.
- FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods quickly for an extra-crispy finish.
- SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest design is compact for countertop convenience.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Nonstick basket and crisper plate are simple to clean.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, 20 recipe book and cooking charts.
-
Pros:
- Excellent at air frying, achieving perfect crispiness.
- Good capacity for family meals.
- User-friendly controls.
- Compact design saves counter space.
- Easy to clean components.
-
Cons:
- Less versatile than multi-function oven combos.
- Can be a bit noisy during operation.
-
User Impressions: Customers love how quickly and efficiently it cooks, consistently delivering crispy food. Many appreciate its ease of use and the significant reduction in oil needed, making healthier eating a breeze.
-
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Fast TurboBlaze Technology
The COSORI Air Fryer takes performance up a notch with its innovative TurboBlaze Technology, delivering rapid cooking and exceptional crispiness. This 6-quart model offers impressive capacity while maintaining a surprisingly quiet operation, which is a huge bonus in any kitchen. It’s a great option for those who want advanced features and a quieter cooking experience without an exorbitant price tag.
-
Key Features:
- TASTE UPGRADE: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉ for crispy, juicy perfection.
- TEXTURE UPGRADE: Advanced airflow and precise temperature control ensure evenly cooked dishes with balanced texture.
- PRO UPGRADE: Unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°–450°F temperature control for professional-grade versatility.
- TIME UPGRADE: TurboBlaze Technology speeds up cooking for quick family meals.
- CAPACITY UPGRADE: 6-quart square basket for family meals while saving counter space.
- EXPERIENCE UPGRADE: Operates at less than 53 dB, delivering whisper-quiet performance.
- 95% LESS OIL: Enjoy crispy textures with significantly less oil than traditional deep frying.
- DISHWASHER-SAFE: Nonstick cooking basket and detachable accessories for easy cleaning.
- CUSTOMIZABLE PREHEAT FUNCTION: Flexibility to preheat or skip it.
- DON’T MISS OUT ENVELOPE: Includes user manual, 30-recipe cookbook, and cooking charts.
-
Pros:
- Extremely fast and efficient cooking thanks to TurboBlaze.
- Impressively quiet operation.
- Generous 6-quart capacity.
- Offers professional-grade versatility with precise controls.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe parts.
-
Cons:
- Digital interface might have a slight learning curve for some.
- The “9-in-1” can sometimes be marketing hype, but the core air frying is stellar.
-
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the speed and quietness of this air fryer. Many highlight its capacity and how well it cooks a variety of foods, often praising the quality of results compared to other models they’ve owned.
-
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving
If you’re living solo, a couple, or simply have limited kitchen real estate, the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer is your compact champion. Don’t let its size fool you; this little powerhouse delivers fantastic results, making it an ideal candidate for the best air fryer for money if efficiency and space-saving are your top priorities. It’s incredibly fast and designed for convenience.
-
Key Features:
- FAST AND EASY: Capacitive touch screen display for customizable cooking time and temperature up to 400°F. Cooks food up to three times quicker than a traditional oven.
- HEALTHY COOKING: Uses little-to-no oil for delicious, guilt-free meals.
- SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: Square basket maximizes 2-quart capacity within a sleek, narrow design.
- SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Automatic audible alarm reminds you to shake food for optimal crispiness.
- COMPACT STORAGE: Perfectly sized for healthy meals for 1-2 people, fits easily on countertops or in cabinets.
- SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Nonstick 2-quart basket and rack are dishwasher safe.
- SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology when cooking finishes or basket is removed.
- RESOURCES: cETL approved with advanced safety technology and a 1-year assurance.
-
Pros:
- Excellent for small households or individual portions.
- Very fast cooking times.
- Extremely compact and easy to store.
- Dishwasher-safe parts for quick cleanup.
- Helpful shake reminders.
-
Cons:
- Limited capacity for larger families or meals.
- Fewer advanced features compared to larger models.
-
User Impressions: Users love its small footprint and how perfect it is for single servings or quick snacks. Many mention its speed and the convenience of dishwasher-safe parts, making it a beloved appliance for everyday use.
-
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs Parchment Paper
While not an air fryer itself, these Air Fryer Paper Liners are an essential accessory that significantly enhances the value and longevity of your air fryer, making them a smart buy if you want to protect your investment and simplify cleanup. Think of them as an indirect way to get more “money” out of your air fryer by reducing wear and tear and saving you precious time scrubbing. They are crucial for maintaining your basket’s non-stick coating.
-
Key Features:
- HEALTHY MATERIALS: Made of raw wood and silicone coating; unbleached, no fluorescent agent, BPA-free, PFAs-free. Waterproof, oil-proof, non-stick, and can withstand temperatures up to 428°F.
- CONVENIENT TO USE: No cutting or measuring needed; simply place the liner on the tray or basket and add food. Keeps food mess contained.
- NO COMPLEX CLEANING: Food-grade silicone oil coating and round bowl shape design protect the air fryer’s inner surface from food mess and sticking, simplifying cleanup.
- WIDELY USED: Great for baking, frying, steaming, skillets, microwaves, and serving food. Suitable for home baking and parties.
- AIR FRYER ACCESSORIES: Specifically sized (8” bottom, 1.8” height, 7.9” top) for 5-8 Qt Ninja air fryers (and similar models). Comes with 125 disposable liners.
-
Pros:
- Massively simplifies air fryer cleanup.
- Protects the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket.
- Prevents food from sticking, ensuring better results.
- Healthy and food-safe materials.
- Convenient pre-cut design.
-
Cons:
- Adds an ongoing cost to air frying.
- Can sometimes restrict airflow slightly if overloaded.
-
User Impressions: Users universally praise these liners for making cleanup a breeze and saving their air fryer baskets from wear and tear. They consider them a must-have for maintaining a pristine appliance and reducing the chore of post-meal cleanup.
-
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
6. Ninja Foodi 10QT 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer
The Ninja Foodi DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer is a game-changer for larger families or anyone who loves to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. Its innovative DualZone Technology and Smart Cook System eliminate the need for back-to-back cooking, truly delivering bang for your buck by saving time and effort. If you need capacity and smart features, this is a top contender for the best air fryer for money.
-
Key Features:
- 2 FOODS, 2 WAYS, AT THE SAME TIME: Eliminates back-to-back cooking with two independent XL air fryer baskets.
- SMART COOK SYSTEM: Achieve perfect doneness (rare to well-done) with the integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer – no guesswork!
- DUALZONE TECHNOLOGY: Smart Finish feature syncs cooking times so both foods finish simultaneously; Match Cook easily copies settings across zones for full 10-qt capacity.
- IQ BOOST: Optimally distributes power across each basket for faster cooking (e.g., 6-lb whole chicken and side).
- 6 VERSATILE COOKING PROGRAMS: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- XL 10-QT CAPACITY AND 2 BASKETS: Cook a main and a side simultaneously for large family meals, or up to 8 lbs of chicken wings with ease.
- 2 INDEPENDENT 5-QT XL ZONES: Each zone has its own cooking basket, cyclonic fan, and rapid heater.
- FASTER COOKING: Cooks two 6-lb chickens up to 30% faster than a traditional oven. Frozen-to-crispy meals in 30 minutes. Wide temperature range (105°F–450°F).
- EASY TO CLEAN: Includes nonstick cooking baskets and dishwasher-safe crisper plates.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer, Foodi Smart Thermometer, (2) 5 Quart Baskets, (2) Nonstick Crisper Plates & 15-Recipe Guide.
-
Pros:
- Cooks two different foods at different settings simultaneously.
- Smart thermometer ensures perfect results every time.
- Massive 10-quart capacity.
- Significantly reduces cooking time for multiple items.
- Easy to clean.
-
Cons:
- Large footprint, requires ample counter space.
- Higher price point than single-basket models (though excellent value for its features).
-
User Impressions: This model consistently receives praise for its dual-zone functionality, which users say is a game-changer for meal prep. The smart thermometer is a huge hit, guaranteeing perfectly cooked meats. Many feel it’s worth the investment for the convenience and capacity it offers.
-
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
Chef Emeril Lagasse brings his culinary flair to your kitchen with this impressive French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven. Combining massive capacity with a stylish aesthetic and a huge array of presets, this unit is designed for those who entertain often or have a large family. It’s a true multi-cooker that elevates your cooking game, offering immense value by consolidating many kitchen functions into one elegant appliance.
-
Key Features:
- A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal, from air frying snacks to roasting for large gatherings.
- PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Oven turns off automatically when the toast countdown timer ends – no burnt toast! Indicator light for red while toasting, blue when done.
- 25 COOKING PRE-SETS: Provides a variety of cooking methods: Ribs, Defrost, Bake, Toast, Chicken, Pizza, Pastry, Slow Cook, Roast, Reheat, and Keep Warm.
- DUAL-SPEED FAN: Golden fried crisping with 360º superheated air circulation.
- 26-QUART CAPACITY: Extra-large countertop toaster suitable for 4–6 people, with capacity to rotisserie a 6-lb chicken or bake a 12” pizza.
- STAINLESS STEEL EXTERIOR: Beautiful aesthetic for any kitchen. Elegant French doors open with a single pull; interior light allows you to monitor food.
-
Pros:
- Massive 26-quart capacity, ideal for large families and entertaining.
- Stylish French door design with interior light.
- Extremely versatile with 25 presets and multiple cooking functions.
- Excellent toast function with auto-off.
- Can rotisserie a whole chicken!
-
Cons:
- Requires significant counter space.
- Higher initial investment.
-
User Impressions: Users absolutely love the generous capacity and how effortlessly it handles large meals, from roasting turkeys to baking multiple pizzas. The French doors are a popular aesthetic touch, and the array of presets makes complex cooking surprisingly simple for a wide variety of foods.
-
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What exactly is an air fryer and how does it work?
A1: An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air around it, typically at temperatures between 300°F and 400°F. This process, known as convection, creates a crispy, browned exterior that mimics the results of deep frying, but with significantly less oil. It’s essentially a mini convection oven.
Q2: Are air-fried foods truly healthier than deep-fried foods?
A2: Yes, generally! Air frying uses little to no oil (often just a tablespoon or two), drastically reducing the fat and calorie content compared to traditional deep frying. While it won’t make unhealthy foods “healthy,” it makes fried foods a much guilt-free option.
Q3: What capacity air fryer do I need?
A3: This depends on your household size:
* 1-2 people: A 2-3 quart air fryer (like the CHEFMAN Mini) is usually sufficient.
* 3-4 people: A 4-6 quart model (like the Ninja Pro or COSORI) is ideal.
* 5+ people or for entertaining: A 7+ quart or a dual-basket/oven-style air fryer (like the Ninja Foodi DualZone or Emeril Lagasse) will be your best bet.
Q4: Can I cook anything in an air fryer?
A4: Almost anything! Air fryers are great for frozen foods (fries, nuggets), fresh vegetables, chicken wings, fish, and even baking small cakes or roasting meats. Wet batters don’t fare as well, as they can drip before crisping.
Q5: How do I clean my air fryer?
A5: Most air fryer baskets and trays are non-stick and often dishwasher-safe (always check your manual!). For best results and to prolong the non-stick coating, handwashing with warm, soapy water is recommended. Using parchment paper liners (like the ones reviewed above) can drastically reduce cleanup time.
Q6: What’s the difference between an air fryer and a convection oven?
A6: An air fryer is essentially a compact, more powerful convection oven. Both use circulating hot air to cook food evenly. The key differences are usually size, fan speed, and heating element proximity. Air fryers are smaller and have a stronger fan, allowing them to cook faster and crisp food more intensely than a standard convection oven, especially for smaller batches.
Q7: Are air fryers worth the money?
A7: Absolutely! For many people, an air fryer is a fantastic investment. They offer a healthier way to enjoy crispy foods, significantly reduce cooking time for many dishes, and are much more energy-efficient than heating up a large conventional oven for smaller meals. They truly add convenience and versatility to your kitchen, making them well worth the cost.
The Final Word
Finding the best air fryer for money really boils down to your specific needs and kitchen setup. Whether you’re a single person looking for a compact fryer, a busy family needing dual-zone efficiency, or a culinary enthusiast craving a multi-functional oven, there’s a perfect air fryer out there for you. Each of the models we’ve reviewed offers exceptional value in its category, promising delicious, crispy results with less oil and more convenience. Happy air frying!